Pivotal handle for towable baggage

ABSTRACT

A towing member for a piece of towable baggage is provide with towing handle that is pivotal in two dimensions relative to an arm portion of the towing member and can be locked into a plurality of predetermined positions. The pivotal relation of the towing handle and the arm potion enables the towing handle to be rotated into a position where a person can grasp the towing handle in a comfortable position by his or her side when the piece of baggage is being towed and also improves the maneuverability of a towable piece of baggage by reducing the need for a person to twist his or her wrist when steering the piece of baggage. The invention also allows the towing handle of retractable towing members to be pivoted into an appropriate position relative to the piece of baggage such that the towing handle lies flush with the baggage and will not become snagged on other items.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of copending U.S.patent application Ser. No. 10/072,042, copending U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 09/705,171, and copending U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 09/990,076. The entire disclosure of all these references isherein incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND

[0002] 1. Field of the Invention

[0003] This invention pertains to the field of hand towable travelbaggage. More particularly, this invention pertains to a towing memberhaving a towing handle that is pivotally attached to an arm portion ofthe towing member and can be locked into a plurality of positions. Thepivotal connection between the towing handle and the arm portion of thetowing member allows a person to hold the towing handle in a positionthat is more comfortable than would otherwise be possible when towing apiece of baggage along a surface.

[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art

[0005] It is common for many varieties of baggage to be equipped withone or more wheels that enable the baggage to be towed by persons whentraveling. Typically, a towable piece of baggage is also provided with atowing member having an arm portion that connects a towing handle to thepiece of baggage. The length of the arm portion connecting the towinghandle to the piece of baggage prevents the baggage from coming intocontact with the person's legs and feet as the piece of baggage is beingtowed.

[0006] Baggage that are not permanently equipped with either wheels ortowing members can also be towed using portable towing carts. A typicalcart can be removably secured to a piece of baggage to provide wheelsand a towing member for towing the piece of baggage.

[0007] Regardless of whether a towing member is an integral part of apiece of baggage or whether it is part of a towing cart, the majority oftowing members allow a towing handle to be selectively extended from andretracted toward a piece of baggage being towed. The ability to extendand retract the towing member allows the towing member to be unobtrusivewhen the piece of baggage is not being towed. Furthermore, with thetowing member in the retracted position, the piece of baggage can moreeasily be placed into the trunk of an automobile or into an overheadcompartment of an airplane when traveling.

[0008] In those cases where the wheels and the towing member of towablebaggage are permanently secured to the baggage, it is common for awheeled piece of baggage to have an extendable towing member comprisedof a pair of parallel telescoping poles, bridged by a towing handle,that slide into separate vertically oriented tubular receptacles rigidlyattached to an interior compartment of the piece of the baggage. It isalso known to utilize a single-pole telescoping tow member that extendsand retracts from a single tubular receptacle centrally positionedbetween the wheels of a piece of baggage. In either situation, a pieceof baggage having a permanently secured towing member typically has areceptacle for the towing handle such that the towing handle lies flushwith an exterior surface of the piece of baggage when the towing memberis retracted. This prevents the towing handle from being obtrusive andreduces the chance of snagging the towing handle on other items, whilealso improving the aesthetic appearance of the piece of baggage when thepiece of baggage is not being towed.

[0009] Perhaps more common of towing carts, other types of baggageutilize non-telescoping extendable towing members such as bars or polesthat are hinged to swing relative to the piece of baggage. Typically,such hinged towing members have some form of clasp that holds the towingmember against a side of the piece of baggage when the baggage is notbeing towed and that releases the towing member, when desired, to allowthe towing member to pivot upwardly into an extended position.

[0010] Regardless of the type of towing member, extendable towingmembers are usually provided with a mechanism for locking the towingmember in the extended position. Such locking mechanisms are well knownin the art and include such devices as spring-loaded detents, cam locks,and other interference locks. Some locking mechanisms are unlocked bymanually operating a release mechanism. Other locking mechanisms, suchas many spring-loaded detent mechanisms, are automatically released bysimply exerting a force on the towing handle that is sufficient toretract the detent. Additionally, some towing members have lockingmechanisms that are capable of locking the towing member in theretracted position.

[0011] Despite the convenience of being able to tow a piece of baggageas opposed to carrying it when traveling, towing a piece of baggage canbe awkward and uncomfortable. One reason that towing a piece of baggagecan be uncomfortable lies in the positioning and the shape of the towinghandle of most towing members. As mentioned above, it is common for thetowing handle of dual-pole towing members to be a bridge spanningbetween the poles. Such towing handles are therefore generally orientedhorizontal to the surface upon which the piece of baggage is being towedand extend perpendicular to the path along which the piece of baggage isbeing towed. In this configuration, a person must generally grasp thetowing handle behind his of her back with his or her wrist rotated toalmost its limit of rotation in either direction. When towing suchbaggage long distances, this position can become uncomfortable and suchpersons often find it necessary to switch hands one or more times toprevent fatigue.

[0012] Regardless of the disadvantages in comfort associated with thetowing handle configuration as described above, alternative orientationsof the towing handles are often not available without compromising otheraspects of the utility of such devices. For example, shaping the handleof an extendable towing member in a manner that would be morecomfortable is likely to cause the handle to protrude from the piecebaggage or require a larger receptacle for the handle when the towingmember is retracted. Another disadvantage associated with the towinghandle configuration described above is that, due to the grasp needed tohold onto the towing handle, the maneuverability of a towed piece ofbaggage becomes limited by the person's inability to further twist hisor her wrist.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0013] The towing member of the present invention is configured for usein combination with a piece of towable baggage. In accordance with thepresent invention, a towing member is provided with a towing handle thatis pivotally connected to an arm portion of the towing member about atleast one axis and that in some embodiments may be locked intopredetermined positions.

[0014] The relative movement between the towing handle and the armportion of the towing member allows a person to grasp the towing handlein a comfortable position when towing a piece of baggage. Additionally,the relative movement between the towing handle and the arm portion ofthe towing member may increase the maneuverability of a towed piece ofbaggage by eliminating the need for a person to adjust his or her gripon the towing handle when attempting to redirect the piece of baggage.Furthermore, the relative movement between the towing handle and the armportion allows the towing handle to be repositioned when the arm portionis retracted such that it is unobtrusive and does not otherwiseinterfere with the use of the piece of baggage.

[0015] In general, the towing member of the present invention comprisesan arm portion and a towing handle. The arm portion is configured toconnect the towing handle to a piece of baggage and the towing handle isconnected to the arm portion in a manner such that the towing handle canpivot relative to the arm portion. In a first embodiment of theinvention, the arm portion utilizes a curved, single-pole telescopingmember that enables the towing handle to be selectively extended fromand retracted toward a piece of baggage. The towing handle of the firstembodiment is T-shaped and a pivot mechanism allows the handle to pivotabout a center-axis of the arm portion that is defined by the length ofthe arm portion.

[0016] By enabling the towing handle to pivot about the center-axis ofarm portion, the towing handle of the first embodiment can be pivotedsuch that its crossbar or hand grip portion extends up and back relativeto a person using the towing member to tow a piece of baggage. Thus,unlike towing members having handles oriented horizontally andside-to-side, the towing handle of the first embodiment can be graspedby a person with their hand by their side and with their palm facingtheir waist. Thus, the towing handle of the first embodiment can begrasped in a natural and comfortable manner similar to how one carries abriefcase. The slope up and back of the hand grip provides additionalcomfort by allowing a person to position his or her wrist in the middleof its range of motion. Additionally, the pivoting relative motionbetween the towing handle and the arm portion reduces the need for aperson to twist his or her wrist when maneuvering the piece of baggage.

[0017] The towing member of the first embodiment is adapted to bepermanently secured to a piece of baggage and preferably comprises areceptacle for recessing the towing handle therein when it is desirableto retract the towing handle. When so doing, the towing handle can bepivoted such that the hand grip is oriented horizontally andside-to-side, which is generally preferable for recessing towing handlesdue to preferred placement of towing members immediately adjacent anexterior surface of the baggage.

[0018] In a second embodiment of the invention, the arm portion has alength with opposite proximal and distal ends and the proximal end ofthe arm portion is operatively secured to a piece of baggage. The towinghandle of the second embodiment is operatively connected to the distalend of the arm portion for pivoting movement of the towing handle aboutat least two pivot axes relative to the arm portion. Because the towinghandle of the second embodiment of the towing member is able to pivotabout at least two pivot axes relative to the arm portion, the secondembodiment of the towing member provides all of the benefits asdiscussed above in reference to the first embodiment, but is also animprovement thereon.

[0019] In a third embodiment of the invention, a towing membercomprising, a towing handle, an arm portion operatively connected to thetowing handle, a pivot mechanism, and a locking mechanism. The armportion is configured and adapted to secure the towing handle to a pieceof baggage. The pivot mechanism connects the towing handle to the armportion in a manner that allows the towing handle to be pivoted about apivot axis relative to part of the arm portion that is spaced from andexternal of the piece of baggage when the towing handle is secured tothe piece of baggage via the arm portion. The locking mechanism isoperatively connected to the towing handle and the arm portion and isalso selectively moveable between a locked position and an unlockedposition relative to the arm portion. The locking mechanism limits thepivoting of the towing handle about the pivot axis relative to the partof the arm portion when it is in the locked position but does not limitthe pivoting of the towing handle about the pivot axis when it is in theunlocked position.

[0020] In the fourth embodiment, the arm portion has a length withopposite proximal and distal ends and the proximal end of the armportion is operatively secured to a piece of baggage. The towing handleof the fourth embodiment is operatively connected to the distal end ofthe arm portion for pivoting movement of the towing handle about atleast two pivot axes relative to the arm portion and further includes alocking mechanism. The locking mechanism is operatively connected to thetowing handle and the arm portion. The locking mechanism is alsoselectively moveable between a locked position and an unlocked positionrelative to the arm portion. When locked, the locking mechanism preventsmotion in the two axes. When unlocked, the locking mechanism releasesmotion in at least one axis, and preferably releases motion in bothaxes. The locking mechanism may also release the components of the armportion to telescope back within each other.

[0021] While the principle advantages and features of the presentinvention have been described above, a more complete and thoroughunderstanding and appreciation for the invention may be attained byreferring to the drawings and the detailed description of the preferredembodiments, which follow.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OFF THE DRAWINGS

[0022]FIG. 1 is an isometric view of the towing member of the firstembodiment secured to a wheeled backpack with the arm portion in anextended position and with the towing handle rotated relative to the armportion such that the hand grip of the towing handle lies in a generallyvertical plane that includes the center-axis of the arm portion.

[0023]FIG. 2 is an isometric view of the towing member of the firstembodiment secured to a wheeled backpack with the arm portion in aretracted position and with the towing handle rotated relative to thearm portion such that the hand grip of the towing handle is horizontallyoriented.

[0024]FIG. 3 is a top view of the towing handle of the towing member ofthe first embodiment.

[0025]FIG. 4 is an elevation view of the towing handle and pivotmechanism of the towing member of the first embodiment.

[0026]FIG. 5 is a bottom view of the towing handle and pivot mechanismof the towing member of the first embodiment.

[0027]FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional, partial view of the towing member ofthe first embodiment showing the assembly of the towing handle to thearm portion.

[0028]FIG. 7 is a top view of the towing member of the secondembodiment.

[0029]FIG. 8 is a partial elevation view of the towing member of thesecond embodiment showing the towing handle and the distal end of thearm portion in a first orientation of the towing handle relative to thearm portion.

[0030]FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the towing member of thesecond embodiment taken about the line 9-9 of FIG. 7.

[0031]FIG. 10 is a partial side view of the towing member of the secondembodiment showing the towing handle and the distal end of the armportion in the first orientation of the towing handle relative to thearm portion.

[0032]FIG. 11 is a partial side view of the towing member of the secondembodiment showing the towing handle and the distal end of the armportion with the towing handle in a second orientation relative to thearm portion.

[0033]FIG. 12 is an exploded assembly view of the towing handle andconnector of the third embodiment of the towing member.

[0034]FIG. 13 is an isometric view of the towing handle and connector ofthe third embodiment shown with the handle locked in its first positionrelative to the connector.

[0035]FIG. 14 is an isometric view of the towing handle and connector ofthe third embodiment shown with the handle unlocked in its firstposition relative to the connector.

[0036]FIG. 15 is an isometric view of the towing handle and connector ofthe third embodiment shown with the handle unlocked and between itsfirst and second lockable positions relative to the connector.

[0037]FIG. 16 is an isometric view of the towing handle and connector ofthe third embodiment shown with the handle locked in its second positionrelative to the connector.

[0038]FIG. 17A is an isometric view of the towing handle and connectorof the fourth embodiment with the handle in a first locked position.

[0039]FIG. 17B is an isometric view of the towing handle and connectorof the fourth embodiment in a second locked position where only a singlepivot axis has been used relative to the position of FIG. 17A.

[0040]FIG. 17C is an isometric view of the towing handle and connectorof the fourth embodiment with the handle in a third locked positionwhere both pivot axes have been used relative to the position of FIG.17A.

[0041]FIG. 18 is a view of the towing handle and connector of the fourthembodiment showing the structure.

[0042]FIG. 19 is a front view of the embodiment of FIG. 18 showingdetail of the handle area.

[0043]FIG. 20 is a cutaway view of the embodiment of FIG. 19 showing theinternal structure of the two directional (two axis) locking mechanismof the handle grip.

[0044]FIG. 21A is a detailed cutaway view of the same segment as FIG. 20at a different angle showing structure of the two axis locking mechanismin the locked position.

[0045]FIG. 211B is the same view as FIG. 21A except that the lockingmechanism is in the unlocked position.

[0046]FIG. 22 shows a detailed view of the paddle structure.

[0047]FIG. 23 is a cutaway view of the same segment as FIG. 21A but withone of the end caps removed to show additional internal structure.

[0048]FIG. 24 is a detailed view of another portion of FIG. 18 showingthe exploded construction at the proximal end of the first tubularsection.

[0049]FIG. 25 is a reverse angle of the view of FIG. 24

[0050] Reference characters in the written specification indicatecorresponding parts throughout the several views of the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0051] The first embodiment of the towing member of the invention isspecifically adapted and configured to be an integral part of a piece ofbaggage. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the towing member (20) of the firstembodiment is attached to a wheeled backpack (22) and is comprised of anarm portion (24), a towing handle (26), and a pivot mechanism (28).Although shown attached to a wheeled backpack, the towing member is notlimited to this use and can be used with other types of wheeled baggage,any type of wheeled bag, and/or with wheeled carts for baggage.

[0052] As shown in FIG. 1, the arm portion (24) of the first embodimentis a curved, retractable single-pole telescoping member formed by aplurality of slidably engaged tubular sections (30), (32), (34). Thetubular sections (30), (32), (34) each have an elliptical or ovalcross-section and are configured to slide one inside the other in atelescoping manner. To reduce wear and provide sufficient strength, thetubular sections (30), (32), (34) are preferably made of steel,aluminum, or other suitable materials. The tubular section (34) havingthe largest cross-section is fixed to inside of the backpack (22) andthe remaining tubular sections (30), (32) telescope therefrom along anarcuate path that defines a center axis A-A along the length of the armportion (24). A locking mechanism (not shown) is preferably configuredto automatically lock the arm portion (24) in the extended position oncethe arm portion is fully extended. Such locking mechanisms are wellknown in the art and the specific type of locking mechanism is notrelevant to the operation of the towing member. Opposite the tubularsection (34) that is fixed to the backpack (22), the distal tubularsection (30) having the smallest cross-section has an end (38) thatremains free to support the towing handle (26). A pair of holes (39) areprovided adjacent the free end (38) to secure the towing handle (26) tothe arm portion (24) as described below.

[0053] The towing handle (26) is preferably T-shaped and is preferablyformed of a polymeric material. The T-shape of the towing handle (26) isformed by a stem (40) that preferably extends perpendicularly from acrossbar or hand grip (42) along a center axis B-B of the stem. The stem(40) of the towing handle (26) terminates at a flat, circular bearingsurface (44) that is perpendicular to the center axis. A cylindricalthrough-hole (46) extends along the center axis through the stem (40)and hand grip (42). A counter-bore (52) is preferably formed into thetowing handle (26) at the top of the through-hole (46). The bearingsurface (44), the through-hole (46), and the counter-bore (52) of thetowing handle (26) form portions of the pivot mechanism (28) asdescribed below. Finally, a recessed cavity (48) and a pair of blindholes (50) are preferably formed in the top of the towing handle (26) toreceive a release mechanism (not shown) for unlocking a lockingmechanism used with the arm portion (24). Although the first embodimentof the towing handle is T-shaped, other shapes could be used. Forexample, the stem could extend from one end of the hand grip and curvesuch that the bearing surface (44) is centered relative to the hand gripor two stems could extend from the opposite ends of the hand grip andcurve to join at a bearing surface.

[0054] In addition to the bearing surface (44), the through-hole (46),and the counter-bore (52) of the towing handle (26), the pivot mechanism(28) preferably comprises a connector (54), a journal-pin or pivot pin(56), and a nut (58). Like the towing handle (26), the connector (54) ispreferably formed of a polymeric material and preferably has an upper,flat circular bearing surface (60) at one end and a base (62) at itsopposite end. The bearing surface (60) of the connector (54) ispreferably equal in area to the area of the bearing surface (44) of thetowing handle (26). The connector (54) also has a center-bore (64)having a diameter equal to the diameter of the through-hole (46) of thetowing handle (26) that extends through the connector (54)perpendicularly from the bearing surface (60). The base (62) of theconnector (54) has a cross-section similar to the cross-section of thefree end (38) of the smallest tubular section (30) and terminates at anannular rim (66). A pair of parallel flats (68) are formed on oppositesides of the base (62) parallel to the center-bore (64) and a pair ofcoaxial blind-holes (70) extend perpendicularly into the flats (68).

[0055] The journal-pin (56) of the pivot mechanism (28) is preferablyformed of steel or aluminum and has an outer cylindrical diametersubstantially equal to the diameter of the through-hole (46) of thetowing handle (26) and the center bore (64) of the connector (54). Thejournal-pin (56) preferably has a head (72) at one of its opposite axialends and a threaded portion (74) at the other of its opposite axialends. The threaded portion (74) is configured for receiving the nut (58)of the pivot mechanism (28). The journal-pin (56) also preferably has anaxial through-hole or center bore (76).

[0056] As shown in FIG. 6, the towing member (20) of the firstembodiment is assembled by passing the journal-pin (56) through thethrough-hole (46) of the towing handle (26) and the center-bore (64) ofthe connector (54) with the head (72) of the journal-pin recessed in thecounter-bore (52) of the towing handle (26) and the nut (58) threaded onthe threaded portion (74) of the pin. Thus, the journal-pin (56)attaches the towing handle (26) to the connector (54) in a manner suchthat the bearing surface (44) of the towing handle (26) is in a flush,rotational sliding engagement with the bearing surface (60) of theconnector (54). The base (62) of the connector (54) is inserted into thefree end (38) of the smallest telescoping section (30) until the rim(66) of the connector is engaged with the free end. The connector (54)is preferably secured to the free end (38) of the telescoping section(30) by a pair of screws or rivets (78) passing through the holes (39)of the free end (38) into the blind-holes (70) of the connector (54).However, other means of connection could be used. The connector securedto the free end (38) of the telescoping section (30) defines the distalend of the arm portion (24).

[0057] Configured as describe above, the journal-pin (56) is alignedwith the center-axis A-A of the arm portion (24) and the towing handle(26) is free to pivot thereabout. The configuration of the telescopingtubular sections (30), (32), (34) allows the arm portion (24) to bemovable between an extended position and a retracted position. In theextended position as shown in FIG. 1, the towing handle (26) ispositioned away from the backpack (22), thereby allowing a person to towthe backpack without the backpack coming into contact with the person'sfeet. In the retracted position, the tubular sections (30), (32), (34)of the arm portion (24) are retracted into each other and the towinghandle (26) is thereby retracted into a receptacle (80) provided in thetop of backpack (22), as shown in FIG. 2. The shape of the towing handle(26) allows a person to grip the hand grip (42) in his or her palm withthe stem (40) extending between the person's index finger and his or hermiddle finger when towing the backpack (22). Furthermore, the towinghandle (26) can be pivoted such that the hand grip (42) of the towinghandle extends up and back, thereby allowing a person to grasp thetowing handle without twisting his or her wrist. Furthermore, whenstowing or wearing the backpack (22), the towing handle (26) can bepivoted and retracted into the receptacle (80) of the backpack where itlies flush and is unlikely to become snagged or hooked on other items.The recess (48) and blind-holes (50) in the towing handle (26) and thecenter bore (76) of the pivot pin (56) allow a release mechanism to bepositioned on the towing handle and extending through the pivot pincenter bore (76) for releasing a locking mechanism (not shown) thatallows the arm portion (24) to be retracted into the backpack (22). Thepivotal connection between the towing handle (56) and the arm portion(24) also allows a person to steer the backpack (22) without twistinghis or her wrist, thereby reducing fatigue and improving the overallmaneuverability of the piece of baggage when being towed.

[0058] The second embodiment of the towing member of the invention, likethe first embodiment, is specifically adapted and configured to be anintegral part of a piece of baggage. As shown in FIGS. 7-11, the towingmember (100) of the second embodiment is preferably comprised of an armportion (102), a towing handle (104), and an intermediary member (106).Although not shown in the FIGS., the towing member (100) of the secondembodiment, is configured to be attached to a piece of towable baggagein a manner similar to the towing member (20) of the first embodiment.Thus, in describing the second embodiment, details of how the towingmember is attached to the piece of baggage are not explicitly provided.However, it should be appreciated that the second embodiment could beattached to the piece of baggage in a manner similar to the firstembodiment or by other means known in the art.

[0059] As shown in FIGS. 8-11, the arm portion (102) of the towingmember (100) of the second embodiment is preferably a curved telescopingmember much like the arm portion (24) of the first embodiment. However,unlike the arm portion (24) of the first embodiment, the arm portion(102) of the second embodiment is preferably a dual-pole member thatslides into and out of a single receptacle (not shown) within the pieceof baggage. The arm portion (102) has a length with a proximal end (notshown) that is slidably engaged with the piece of baggage and anopposite distal end (108) that can be retracted toward and extended awayfrom the piece of baggage. A pair of spaced apart tubular members (110)formed of aluminum, steel, or other suitably strong materials connectthe proximal end of the arm portion (102) to the distal end (108) of thearm portion. The tubular members (110) of the arm portion (102) extendside-by-side along the length of the arm portion (102) in closeproximity to each other and are preferably rigidly connected to eachother at the opposite proximal and distal (108) ends of the arm portion(102). Thus, the two tubular members (110) of the arm portion (102)function much like a conventional single-pole member and the two membersare utilized in place of a single tubular member mainly for aestheticpurposes. Finally, a through-hole (112) is preferably formed througheach of the tubular members (110) adjacent the distal edge (114) of eachof the tubular members.

[0060] The arm portion (102) also comprises a pair of distal end caps(116) that are preferably formed of a polymeric material. Each of theend caps (116) has a base portion (118) that is configured and adaptedto slide into the distal end of one of the tubular members (110) in asocketing manner. A shoulder (120) is formed on each of the end caps(116) adjacent the base portion (118) and is configured to engageagainst the distal edge (114) of each of the tubular members (110) toprevent the end cap from sliding further into the tubular member. Afirst through-hole (122) is formed through the base portion (118) ofeach end cap (116). Each base portion through-hole (122) aligns with thethough-hole (112) of the respective tubular member (110) when the baseportion of the end cap is inserted into the tubular member and theshoulder (120) of the end cap is engaged with the distal edge (114) ofthe tubular member. A fastener (124), such as a rivet, passes throughthe through-hole (112) of each tubular member (110) and the firstthrough-hole (122) of each end cap base portion (118) and therebysecures the end caps to the tubular members.

[0061] Each of the end caps (116) also comprises a planer bearingsurface (126) that is oriented perpendicular to the shoulder (120) ofthe end cap. The bearing surface (126) preferably has a circularperiphery. A second through-hole (128) is formed through each end cap(116) and is centered in and perpendicular to the bearing surface. Thesecond through-holes (128) of the bearing caps are coaxial. The secondthrough-hole has a counter-bore (130) that is formed into the side ofeach end cap (116) opposite the bearing surface (126). The counter-bore(130) thereby forms a recessed annular shelf (132). With each end cap(116) attached to one of the tubular members (110) of the arm portion(102) as described above, the bearing surfaces (126) of the end caps arespaced apart and are oriented parallel to and facing each other.

[0062] The towing handle (104) of the second embodiment of the towingmember (100) is preferably formed of polymeric material and metal. Thetowing handle (104) is T-shaped and comprises a grip portion (134)formed of polymeric material and having opposite free ends (136). A stemportion (138) of the towing handle (104) is also formed of polymericmaterial, preferably integrally with the grip portion (134). The stemportion (138) intersects the grip portion (134) and extends preferablyperpendicularly therefrom. A circular bearing surface (140) is formed atthe end of the towing handle stem portion (138). The towing handle (104)also comprises a handle pivot shaft (142) that is preferably formed ofmetal and is centered in and protrudes perpendicularly from the stemportion bearing surface (140). The pivot shaft (142) projects from thestem portion bearing surface to a threaded portion (144) of the shaftadjacent its distal end. The opposite end (146) of the handle pivotshaft (142) extends into the handle grip portion (134) and is preferablynarrowed, knurled, or otherwise textured (not shown) and the gripportion (134) and stem portion (138) of the towing handle (104) aremolded around the handle pivot shaft securing the handle pivot shaft tothe towing handle grip and stem portions.

[0063] The intermediary member (106) of the towing member (100) ispreferably formed of a polymeric material as a single monolithic part. Apair of first and second circular bearing surfaces (146), (148) areformed at opposite ends of the intermediary member (106) and areparallel to and aligned with each other. A third circular bearingsurface (150) is formed on the intermediary member (106) and is orientedperpendicular to the first and second bearing surfaces (146), (148). Afirst through-hole (152) extends through intermediary member (106)perpendicularly from the center of the first bearing surface (146) tothe center of the second bearing surface (148). A second-through-hole(154) extends through the intermediary member (106), perpendicularlyfrom the center of the third bearing surface (150). The secondthrough-hole (154) has a counter bore (156) that is formed into theintermediary member (106) from the side opposite to the third bearingsurface (150). The counter-bore (156) forms a recessed annular shelf(158).

[0064] In addition to the arm portion (102), the towing handle (104),and the intermediary member (106), the towing member (100) of the secondembodiment also comprises a shoulder-bolt (160), a shoulder-bolt nut(162), and a handle pivot shaft nut (164) that are utilized to connectthe components of the towing member together. The towing handle (104) isassembled to the arm portion (102) of the towing member (100) via theintermediary member (106).

[0065] The assembly of the various components of the towing member (100)of the second embodiment is achieved by first inserting the handle pivotshaft (142) of the towing handle (104) into the second through-hole(154) of the intermediary member (106) such that the bearing surface(140) of the towing handle engages against the third bearing surface(150) of the intermediary member. The handle pivot shaft nut (164) isthen inserted into the counter-bore (156) of the intermediary member(106) and is threaded onto the threaded portion (144) of the handlepivot shaft (142) until it lightly engages against the recessed annularshelf (158) of the intermediary member. Thus, the handle pivot shaft nut(164) thereby holds the bearing surface (140) of the towing handle (104)against the third bearing surface (150) of the intermediary member(106). The handle pivot shaft nut (164) is preferably a self-lockingtype of nut and a washer (not shown) is preferably utilized such that,once assembled, the towing handle (104) and the handle pivot shaft nutare free to pivot together about the axis of the second through-hole(154) of the intermediary member (106) relative to the intermediarymember, without requiring excessive torque and without the nutloosening. It should also be appreciated that the handle pivot shaft(142) of the towing handle (104) and the handle pivot shaft nut (164)are dimensioned such that the first through-hole (152) of theintermediary member (106) remains unobstructed.

[0066] Once the towing handle (104) has been assembled to theintermediary member (106) as described above, the intermediary member isthen assembled to the arm portion (102) of the towing member (100) usingthe shoulder-bolt (160) and the shoulder-bolt nut (162). This is done byfirst positioning the first and second bearing surfaces (146), (148) ofthe intermediary member (106) between the bearing surfaces (126) of theend caps (116) of the arm portion (102) and aligning the firstthrough-hole (152) of the intermediary member with the secondthrough-hole (128) of each of the end caps. Next, the shoulder-bolt(160) is inserted into the counter-bore (130) of one of the end caps(116) such that it extends through the second through-hole (128) of eachof the end caps and through the first through-hole (152) of theintermediary member (106). The shoulder-bolt nut (162) is then insertedinto the counter-bore (130) of the other end cap (116) where it is thenthreaded onto the shoulder-bolt (160). Like the handle pivot shaft nut(164), the shoulder-bolt nut (162) is preferably a self-locking type ofnut. As the shoulder-bolt nut (162) is tightened onto the shoulder-bolt(160), the head of the shoulder-bolt and the shoulder-bolt nut engageagainst the recessed annular shelves (132) of the end caps (116) andthereby act to move the end caps toward each other. The intermediarymember (106) is dimensioned such that only a slight interference fitexists between first and second bearing surfaces (146), (148) of theintermediary member and the bearing surfaces (126) of the end caps(116). It should be appreciated that the shoulder-bolt nut (162) istightened onto the shoulder-bolt (160) only as much as is necessary toeliminate any gap between the end caps (116) and the intermediary member(106) and is not tightened to the point that significantly prohibitspivoting movement between the intermediary member and the end caps aboutthe axis of the shoulder bolt.

[0067] Once the towing member (100) of the second embodiment isassembled as described above, the towing handle (104) can be pivotedabout two axes relative to the arm portion (102) of the towing member. Afirst one of the axes is the axis of the shoulder-bolt (160) about whichthe towing handle (104) and the intermediary member (106) pivot togetherrelative to the end caps (116) of the arm portion (102) of the towingmember (100). This first axis remains generally parallel to the rotationaxis of the wheels of the piece of baggage to which the towing member(100) is ultimately attached. A second one of the axes is the axis ofthe handle pivot shaft (142) about which the towing handle (104) and thehandle pivot shaft nut (164) are free to rotate relative to theintermediary member (106) of the towing member (100).

[0068] The multi-axis pivoting of the towing member (100) of the secondembodiment allows the towing handle (104) to be oriented as shown inFIGS. 10 and 11, relative to the arm portion (102) of the towing member.In FIG. 10, the towing handle (104) is shown in an orientation whereinthe grip portion (134) of the towing handle (104) is oriented parallelto the first axis. In this orientation, the towing handle (104) can beeasily retracted into the piece of baggage in a manner similar to themanner described in reference to the towing member (20) of the firstembodiment. As shown in FIG. 11, the towing handle (104) has beenpivoted about both the first and second axes in a manner such that thesecond axis extends vertically and the grip portion (134) of the towinghandle extends horizontally in a plane perpendicular to the first axis.In this orientation, the grip portion (134) of the towing handle (104)is ideally positioned for a person to tow the piece of baggagewithout-flexing his or her wrist, regardless of the angle of inclinationof the piece of baggage.

[0069] The third embodiment of the towing member comprises the towinghandle (200) and connector (202) shown in FIGS. 12-16. FIG. 12 shows anexploded assembly view of the towing handle (200) and connector (202) ofthe third embodiment of the towing member.

[0070] In general, the towing handle (200) of the third embodiment ofthe towing member comprises a lower portion (204), an upper portion(206), two end caps (208), and a unlocking/release button (210) that arepreferably formed of polymeric material. Like the first and secondembodiments, the towing handle (202) of the third embodiment ispreferably T-shaped. The lower portion (204) of the towing handle (200)forms one half of the hand grip (212) of the towing handle and comprisesan integrally formed stem (214) that preferably extends perpendicularlyfrom the handgrip portion along the center axis of the towing handle.The stem (214) has a necked portion that forms a cylindrical shaft (216)and terminates with a locking protrusion (218). The locking protrusion(218) essentially has the form of a cylinder having two intersectingchannels (220) formed into its terminal face (222). The channels (220)are preferably perpendicular to each other and intersect at the axis ofsymmetry of the towing handle. For reasons discussed below, each of thechannels (220) preferably has opposed walls that diverge from each otherslightly as they extend radially from the center axis. A through-hole(226) is aligned with the center axis of the towing handle (200) andextends through the lower portion (204). Finally, a plurality of grooves(228) are formed into the hand grip (212) part of the lower portion ofthe towing handle (200) to increase a person's grip of the towing handleand to improve the aesthetics of the towing handle.

[0071] The upper portion (206) of the towing handle (200) has agenerally semi-cylindrical shell shape that forms the upper half of thehand grip (212) of the towing handle. An opening (230) having an ovalperiphery extends through center of the upper portion (206).

[0072] The end caps (208) of the towing handle (200) are preferablyidentical to each other and are preferably formed as flat plates havingoval perimeters. A pair of countersunk screw holes (232) preferablyextend through each of the end caps (208).

[0073] The unlocking/release button (210) comprises a oval shapedprotrusion (234) with a circumscribing rim (236) formed thereabout. Theoval shaped protrusion (234) is dimensioned slightly smaller than theoval opening (230) of the upper portion (206) of the towing handle (200)such that the oval shaped protrusion can pass therethrough. However, therim (236) of the unlocking/release button (210) is dimensioned largerthan the oval opening (230) of the upper portion (206) of the towinghandle (200) such that the entire unlocking/release button (210) cannotpass through the opening. The opposite end of the unlocking/releasebutton (210) comprises a rod (238) that cantilevers from the remainderof the button. The rod of the unlocking/release button (210) ispreferably cylindrical in shape.

[0074] The connector (202) of the third embodiment of the towing membercomprises two identical connector halves (240) and a locking member(242) that are preferably formed of polymeric material. Each of theconnector halves (240) preferably comprises a cavity (244) that issubstantially surround by a peripheral ridge (246). A flat surface (248)is formed in the cavity (244) and a pair of tubular posts (250) extendperpendicularly from the flat surface. Each of the connector halves(240) also comprises semi cylindrical journal surface (252) that isformed into its peripheral ridge (246). A semi-cylindrical channel (254)recess having a slightly larger radius than the journal surface (252) isformed in the cavity (244) immediately adjacent and aligned with thejournal surface. The journal surface (252) is dimensioned to correspondto the length and diameter of the cylindrical shaft (216) of the stem(214) of the towing handle (200). A smaller semicylindrical opening isaligned with the journal surface (252) and is formed into the oppositeside of the peripheral ridge (246) of each of the connector halves(240). Finally, a plurality of alignment pins (258) and alignment holes(260) are formed into the peripheral ridge (246).

[0075] The locking member (242) of the connector (202) is generallyrectangular in shape and has a pair of opposite parallel surfaces (262).A pair of oval slots (264) extend through the locking member (242) fromone of the opposite parallel surfaces (262) to the other. The lockingmember (242) also has opposite top (266) and bottom (268) end portionsand has a cylindrical blind-hole (270) in the bottom end portion thatextends toward the top end portion.

[0076] Having described the various components of the towing handle(200) and the connector (202) of the third embodiment of the towingmember, the assembly of the components will now be discussed. The towinghandle (200) of the third embodiment of the towing member is assembledby first slidably inserting the rod (238) of the unlocking/releasebutton (210) into the through-hole (226) of the lower portion (204) ofthe towing handle from thereabove. Once this is done, the upper portion(206) of the towing handle (200) is brought into engagement with thelower portion (204) of the towing handle. As this is done, the ovalshaped protrusion (234) of the unlocking/release button (210) ispositioned extending through the opening (230) of the upper portion(206). Once the upper (206) and lower (204) portions of the towinghandle (200) are engaged with each other, the unlocking/release button(210) becomes captured therebetween due to the fact that the rim (236)of the unlocking/release button is larger than the opening (230) of theupper portion of the towing handle. With the upper (206) and lower (204)portions of the towing handle (200) engaging each other, the end caps(208) are then attached to the opposite ends of the hand grip (212) ofthe towing handle using screw fasteners (not shown) that are insertedthrough the screw holes (232) of the end caps. With the end caps (208)attached as described above, the upper (206) and lower (204) portions ofthe towing handle (200) are secured together and cannot be separatedwithout removing the ends caps.

[0077] The connector (202) is assembled to the lower portion (204) ofthe towing handle (200). This is done by first positioning the shaft(216) of the stem (214) of the lower portion (204) of the towing handle(200) against the journal surface (252) of one of the connector halves(240). The locking member (242) of the connector (202) is thenpositioned with one of its opposite parallel surfaces (262) engaging theflat surface (248) of the connector halve (240) and with the blind-hole(270) of the locking member facing away from the towing handle (200). Inthis position, the posts (250) of the connector halve (240) extendpartially into the oval slots (264) of the locking member (242).Finally, the other of the connector halves (240) is then attached to theassembly by aligning the alignment pins (258) of each of the connectorhalves with the alignment holes (260) of the other of the connectorshalves and moving the halves toward each other until the peripheralridge (246) of each of the halves engages with the other. The connectorhalves (240) are dimensioned and shaped such that when they are engagedwith each other as described above, the posts (250) of each connectorhalve engages with the posts of the other halve within the oval slots(264) of the locking member (242). This prevents the flat surfaces (248)of the connector halves (240) from clamping the locking member (242)therebetween. Thus, the locking member (242), although trapped with theinternal volume of the connector (202) that is created by the cavities(244) of the connector halves (240), remains free to translate towardand away from the stem (214) of the towing handle (200). The towinghandle (200) itself, except when locked as discussed below, remains freeto pivot about its center axis relative to the connector (202) butcannot be removed therefrom due to the fact that the locking protrusion(218) is trapped between the semi-cylindrical channels (254) of theconnector halves (240).

[0078] As assembled above, the towing handle (200) and connector (202)of the third embodiment are then attached to the distal end of the armportion (not shown) of the towing member that is preferably of the typedescribed in reference to the first embodiment of the towing member.Similar to the first embodiment of the towing member, the connector(202) of the third embodiment is preferably dimensioned to slide tightlyinto the tubular end of the arm portion. While this is done, a releasemember (272) is inserted through the opening at the base of theconnector (202) created by the semi-cylindrical openings (256) of theconnector halves (240) and into the blind-hole (270) of the lockingmember (242). The release member (272) is configured and adapted toactuate a locking mechanism (not shown) when it is pressed so as toallow the arm portion of the towing member to be retracted into thebaggage to which it is attached. Such release members and lockingmechanisms are well known in the field of the art and the particularconfiguration and details thereof are not relevant to the presentinvention except as otherwise indicated. However, it should beappreciate that towing handle (200) and connector (202) of the thirdembodiment is specifically configured to work in conjunction with arelease member of the type that is spring biased toward the towinghandle. Once the connector (202) has been assembled to the arm portionof the towing member as discussed above, a pair of fasteners (not shown)are inserted through the distal end of the arm portion and through thetubular posts (250) of the connector halves (140) to secure theconnector to the arm portion of the towing member, thereby completingthe assembly process.

[0079] Once fully assembled, the towing handle (200) can be selectivelylocked in two orientations relative to the connector (202) and armportion of the towing member of the third embodiment. To describe howthis is achieved, towing handle (200) and connector (202) assembly isshown with one of the connector halves (240) removed in FIGS. 13-16. Asshown in its first orientation in FIG. 13, the towing handle (200) ispositioned such that its hand grip (212) is oriented generally parallelto the flat surfaces (248) of the connector halves (240). In thisposition, the biasing force of the release member (272) causes thelocking member (242) of the connector (202) to move toward the towinghandle (200) until the top end portion (266) of the locking member movesinto one of the channels (220) formed in the locking protrusion (218) ofthe towing handle. As a result of the locking member (242) beingpositioned between the opposed walls (224) of the respective channel(220), the towing handle (200) is prevented from freely rotating aboutits center axis relative to the connector (202) by the engagement of theopposed walls of the channel with the locking member. However, theopposed walls (224) of each of the channels (220) are specificallydimensioned to be slightly further apart than are the opposite parallelsurfaces (262) of the locking member (242) such that the towing handle(200) can pivot slightly through approximately a twenty degree arcrelative to the connector (202) when locked in its first orientation.

[0080] When desired, the towing handle (200) can be selectively lockedin its second orientation relative to the connector (202) and towingmember. This is done by pressing the oval shaped protrusion (234) of theunlocking/release button (210) on the towing handle (200) and rotatingthe handle to its second orientation shown in FIG. 16. When theunlocking/release button (210) is pressed as shown FIG. 14, the rod(238) of the unlocking/release button (210) extends into the channels(220) of the locking protrusion (218) of the stem (214) of the towinghandle (200) and engages the locking member (242) of the connector(202). This action overcomes the biasing force that the release member(272) exerts on the locking member (242) and forces the locking memberaway from the towing handle (200), thereby disengaging the top endportion (266) of the locking member from the respective channel (220) ofthe locking protrusion (218) of the towing handle as shown in FIG. 14.The towing handle (200) can then be freely rotated relative to theconnector (202), so long as the unlocking/release button (210) remainspressed.

[0081] If desired, the towing handle (200) can then be locked in itssecond orientation relative to the connector (202) and arm portion ofthe towing member. This is done by simply releasing theunlocking/release button (210) of the towing handle (200) after thetowing handle has been rotated to its second orientation. When theunlocking/release button (210) has been released, the biasing force ofthe release member (272) once again forces the locking member (242)toward the towing handle (200) until the top end portion (266) of thelocking member moves into the other of the channels (220) formed in thelocking protrusion (218) of the towing handle. Thus, as shown in FIG.16, the towing handle (200) is once again prevented from freely rotatingabout its center axis relative to the connector (202) by the engagementof the opposed walls (224) of the channel (220) with the locking member(242). As discussed above, it should be appreciated that, due to theopposed walls (224) of each of the channels (220) being dimensioned tobe slightly further apart than are the opposite parallel surfaces (262)of the locking member (242), the towing handle (200) remains able topivot through approximately a twenty degree arc relative to theconnector (202) when locked in its second orientation. Theunlocking/release button (210) can be pressed at any time to allow theorientation of the towing member (200) to be adjusted as desiredrelative to the remainder of the towing member. Additionally, it isimportant to understand that as the unlocking/release button (210) ispressed, the movement of the locking member (242) within the connector(202) causes the release member (272) to resiliently move away from thetowing handle (200). Thus, by pressing the unlocking/release button(210), the release member (272) actuates the locking mechanism so as toallow the arm portion of the towing member to be retracted into thebaggage.

[0082] As described above, the towing handle (200) of the thirdembodiment of the towing member can be pivoted in a manner similar tothat of the first embodiment relative to the remainder of the towingmember. However, the towing handle (200) can also be locked in any oneof a plurality of orientations relative to the remainder of the towingmember. This locking feature allows a person towing a piece of baggageto exert a torque relative to the axis of the towing member when desiredand thereby prevents inadvertent rollover of the piece of baggage (20)when the piece of baggage is towed over uneven ground, such as a curb.

[0083] The fourth embodiment of the towing member of the invention, likethe first through third embodiments, is specifically adapted andconfigured to be an integral part of a piece of baggage. The fourthembodiment is generally of similar appearance and operation to thesecond embodiment, but like the third embodiment, incorporates a lockingmechanism and a lock release into its structure. In the fourthembodiment, the locking mechanism is particularly designed to allow fora single button activation by the user to unlock the handle and allowfor free motion of the handle along both the allowed axes of motion. Inthe depicted embodiment of FIGS. 17-25, the structure particularlyallows for only two different positions of the button, so that when thebutton is depressed, both axes of motion are simultaneously released. Inanother embodiment, however, one of ordinary skill in the art wouldunderstand how the structure described below could be modified to allowfor a particular button depression to release the motion along only oneaxes and a second motion to release the other axis. For instance,depression of the button to a first predetermined depth could releaseone axis of rotation and to a further depth could release the second.Alternatively, multiple buttons (for example, one for each axis) couldbe used in another embodiment.

[0084] Shown in overview in FIG. 18, is an embodiment of a lockinghandle allowing motion in two axes which can be alternatively lockedinto one of a plurality of predetermined positions, or unlocked to allowfor free motion of the handle in two axes. The towing member (700) ofthe fourth embodiment is preferably comprised of an arm portion (702), atowing handle (704), and an intermediary member (706). Although notshown in the FIGS., the towing member (700) of the fourth embodiment, isconfigured to be attached to a piece of towable baggage in a mannersimilar to the towing member (102) of the second embodiment. The arm(702) is also preferably formed of three tubular sections (802), (902),and (602). The tubular sections (802), (902) and (602) preferably havean elliptical, oval, or figure-8 cross-section and are preferablyconfigured to slide one inside the other in a telescoping manner and tobe curved in a manner similar to arm portion (102) of the secondembodiment or arm portion (24) of the first embodiment. In describingthe fourth embodiment, details of how the towing member is attached tothe piece of baggage that are not explicitly provided should be presumedto be of similar design to those of other embodiments. However, itshould be appreciated that the fourth embodiment could specifically beattached to the piece of baggage in a manner similar to the secondembodiment or by other means known in the art.

[0085] Like the arm portion (102) of the second embodiment, theoutermost first tubular section (802) of the fourth embodiment ispreferably a dual-pole member that slides into and out of a singlereceptacle within the piece of baggage. The first tubular section (802)has a length with a proximal end (808) that is slidably engaged with thesecond tubular section (902) and an opposite distal end (708) that canbe retracted toward and extended away from the piece of baggage. A pairof spaced apart tubular members (710), which may be formed of, but arenot limited to, aluminum, steel, plastic or other suitably strongmaterials and connect the proximal end (808) of the first tubularsection (802) to the distal end (708) of the first tubular section(802). The tubular members (710) of the first tubular section (802)extend side-by-side in a generally parallel manner along the length ofthe first tubular section (802) in close proximity to each other and arepreferably rigidly connected to each other at the opposite proximal(808) and distal (708) ends. This may be accomplished through the use ofend cap (811) at the proximal end (808) and the connecting structuresdiscussed below at the distal end (708). Thus, the two tubular members(710) of the first tubular section (802) function much like aconventional single-pole member and the two members are utilized inplace of a single tubular member mainly for aesthetic purposes. Finally,at least one through-hole (712) is preferably formed through each of thetubular members (710) corresponding with the tubular members beingconsidered generally hollow. The first tubular section (802) willgenerally slide into the second tubular section (902) which in turn willslide into a third tubular section (602) which may be the arm portion(702) receptacle in the piece of baggage. In another embodiment anynumber of tubular sections may be used and the telescoping connectionmay alternatively be obtained by alternative structures.

[0086]FIGS. 19 through 22 provide for various views showing additionaldetail of the portion of the towing member (702) towards the handle grip(704). The first tubular section (802) also comprises a pair of distalend caps (716) that may be formed of, but are not limited to polymericmaterials or metals. Each of the end caps (716) is of a generally elbowshape and has a base portion (718) that is configured and adapted toslide onto the distal end (708) of one of the tubular members (710) in asocketing manner. A shoulder (not shown) may be formed within each ofthe end caps (716) adjacent the base portion (718) and may be configuredto engage against the distal edge (708) of each of the tubular members(710) to prevent the end cap from sliding further onto the tubularmember. A first through-hole (not shown) may be formed through the baseportion (718) of each end cap (716). Such a base portion through-holegenerally aligning with the through-hole (712) of the respective tubularmember (710) when the base portion (718) of the end cap (716) isinserted onto the tubular member (710) and the shoulder of end cap (716)is engaged with the distal edge (708) of the tubular member (710). In analternative embodiment, the end cap (716) need not include athrough-hole but may be solid in its internal structure. The end caps(716) may be affixed to the appropriate tubular member (710) by anymeans know to one of ordinary skill in the art including, but notlimited to, adhesives, fasteners, welds, or other types of fastening.

[0087] Each of the end caps (716) also comprises a planar bearingsurface (726) that is oriented perpendicular to the base portion (718)of the end cap (716). The bearing surface (726) preferably has agenerally circular periphery. A second through-hole (728) may be formedthrough each of the bearing surfaces (726) which is preferably centeredin and perpendicular to the bearing surface (726). This through-hole(728) may later be used to house bullet shaft (691). In anotherembodiment the through-hole (728) may be eliminated making end cap (716)solid. It is preferred that the second through-hole (728), if included,be of generally similar diameter to that of the first through-hole butthat is by no means required.

[0088] Attached to the bearing surface (726) is a collar (791) ofgenerally circular shape and having a diameter generally less than thediameter of the bearing surface (726). Attached to the collar (791)there is then a slotted ring (751) which is also of generally circularshape and has an outer diameter greater than the diameter of the collar(791), but generally less than the diameter of the bearing surface(726), although larger or smaller slotted rings (751) may be used inalternative embodiments. The second through-hole (728), if present,continues through the collar and the slotted ring (751) making each ofthe slotted ring (751) and the collar (791) hollow. Even if the secondthrough-hole (728) is eliminated, the slotted ring (751) will stillgenerally be of hollow shape making the ring circumjacent an opening.Each slotted ring (751) includes at least one slot (753) therein. Theslot (753) is a cut through the side of slotted ring (751) along aradius of the slotted ring (751) and therefore connects the opening towhich the ring is circumjacent to the space outside the slotted ring(751) (or alternatively simply creates an opening in that direction evenif not connected fully through to the outside space). Each slot (753) isof a predetermined width and depth. The width is preselected to be equalto or greater than the thickness of paddle (771) (discussed later). Thedepth may be of any depth and may go entirely through the slotted ring(751), or be of any depth shorter. The depth will preferably, however,be sufficient to engage and hold an object of width similar to the widthof the slot (753) without it being able to be twisted from within theslot (753). The slotted ring (751) of one end cap (716) is generallyparallel to and separated from with the slotted ring (751) of the otherend cap (716).

[0089] From FIG. 19 The towing handle (704) of the fourth embodiment ofthe towing member (700) is preferably formed of polymeric materialand/or metal, but may be formed of any materials known to one ofordinary skill in the art. The towing handle (704) is generally“T”-shaped (although may be offset as shown in the FIGS.) and comprisesa grip portion (734) having opposite free ends (736) and (737) and astem portion (738). Stem portion (738) of the towing handle (704) ispreferably integrally formed with the grip portion (734) but that is byno means necessary. Both the grip portion (734) and the stem portion(738) are preferably of generally hollow construction. The stem portion(738) intersects the grip portion (734) and extends preferablyperpendicularly therefrom. A circular bearing surface (740) is formed atthe end of the stem portion (738) separated from the grip portion (734).

[0090] An intermediary member (706) of the towing member (700) ispreferably formed of a polymeric material as two halves later connectedtogether by any means know to one of ordinary skill in the art, but may,alternatively, be formed of any other number of parts. The intermediarymember (706) is of generally “T” shaped construction and includes a pairof first and second circular bearing surfaces (746), (748) which areformed at opposite ends of the intermediary member (706) and areparallel to and spaced from each other. A third circular bearing surface(750) is formed on the intermediary member (706) and is orientedperpendicular to and spaced from the first and second bearing surfaces(746) and (748). Intermediary member (706) is preferably generallyhollow. Further, each of said three bearing surfaces has a through-holetherethrough. The through-hole is bounded by a ridge (846), (848) or(850) wherein the ridge (846), (848), or (850) is designed to have adiameter and thickness so that the size of the through-hole at the ridgecorresponds to the outside diameter of the collar about which theparticular arm portion of the intermediate member will be attached whilethe interior hollow section provides for a greater open area.Specifically the side ridges (846) and (848) encircle the collar (791)on the end caps (716) and the top ridge (850) encircles the collar (873)on the pivot shaft (742) with the slotted rings (773) and (751) withinthe hollow interior of intermediary member (706) and prevented fromremoval from the hollow interior of intermediate member by the sides ofridges (846), (848), and (850). It will be appreciated by those of skillin the art that the collar/ridge construction provides for rotationalmovement, while preventing linear movement of the intermediary member(706).

[0091]FIGS. 20 and 21 provide for views of the internal structure of thearea of FIG. 19 by removal of portions of the grip portion (734) andstem portion (738). Within the grip portion (734) there is included anopening (739) at one end (737). The opening (739) has placedtherethrough a portion of button mechanism (741). In the preferredembodiment, the button mechanism (741) includes a piece of itsconstruction which extends a particular fixed distance through saidopening (739). This portion may be covered by a button cover (743).Further, there is generally a biasing member (745) (in this case aspring) which biases the button mechanism (741) to a position with theportion extended through the opening (739). The button mechanism (741)will generally also have a lip, shoulder, or similar portion so thatwhen biased by the biasing mechanism (745), the button mechanism extendspartially beyond the opening (739) but cannot be freely removed throughthe opening (739).

[0092] The towing handle (704) also comprises a handle pivot shaft (742)and a handle depression pin (747) which extend in generallyperpendicular relation to the handle grip (734) and through the stemportion (738). The handle pivot shaft (742) is preferably generallytubular in construction and has a central through-hole (842) throughwhich the handle depression pin (747) can slideably move. The pivotshaft (742) will also be generally free floating with regards to buttonmechanism (741) but will generally be rigidly attached to the stemportion (738). The depression pin (747) is designed to translate motionfrom the depression of the button mechanism (741) by a user into lineardisplacement of the depression pin (747) through the through-hole (842)in the pivot shaft (742). In the depicted embodiment, this isaccomplished by designing the depression pin (747) to have a shaped head(749) with an angle on a side. The button mechanism (741) will then havea correspondingly sized depression (751) into which the shaped head(749) is placed when the button mechanism (741) is biased through theopening (739) toward the button mechanism (741) by a biasing mechanism(not shown). As the button mechanism (741) is depressed by the useragainst the biasing force of biasing member (745), the mating anglesslide against each other and force the depression pin (747) to linearlydisplace a distance along the axis of the pivot shaft (742) and throughthe stem portion (738) and pivot shaft (742). One of ordinary skill inthe art would understand that depicted button mechanism (741) is onlyone of a plurality of different types of button mechanisms which couldbe used. In an alternative embodiment, the button mechanism could bedesigned to be pushed in an alternative direction (for instance,linearly in the direction of the depression pin displacement) and withappropriate design choice, any of this button motion could be translatedinto linear motion of the depression pin (747) along the axis of thepivot shaft (742). One of ordinary skill in the art would also recognizethat this motion is also accomplished by the button of the thirdembodiment, which could alternatively be used.

[0093] It is preferred that depression pin (747) and through-hole (842)have a non-circular cross section or that the depression pin (747) beprevented from rotating about the axis of the pivot shaft (742) relativeto the pivot shaft or otherwise rotating within the through hole (842).In a preferred embodiment the depression pin (747) and through-hole(842) are both generally polygonal in cross section, and more preferablysquare in cross section.

[0094] At the base of depression pin (747) there is held a paddle (771).The paddle (771) is shown separated from the other structure in FIG. 22but within the intermediary member (706) in the other FIGS. The paddle(771) will generally be planar with a predetermined thickness and may beof an “arrowhead” shape, but other shapes could be used as would beunderstood by one of ordinary skill in the art. The paddle (771) will beattached to the depression pin (747) in a manner such that lineardisplacement of the depression pin (747) will result in lineardisplacement of the paddle (771) and that the depression pin (747) canfreely rotate about the axis of the pivot shaft (742) relative to thepaddle (771). In the depicted embodiment, this is accomplished by makingthe depression pin (747) hollow and then attaching a paddle pin (890) toan edge of the paddle (771). This detail of the paddle is shown in FIG.22. The paddle pin (890) is preferably of cylindrical construction or ofanother type of construction so that the paddle pin (890) can freelyrotate about the axis of the pivot shaft (742) within the hollow centerof depression pin (747). To assemble the structure, the paddle pin (890)will be placed inside the hollow center of the depression pin (747).Further the paddle (771) will be biased toward the depression pin (747)by a biasing mechanism (not shown) so as to insert the paddle pin (890)as far as possible into the depression pin (747) as shown in FIG. 21.The linear motion of the paddle (771) is accomplished by the externalstructure of the depression pin (747) pushing against the edge of thepaddle (771) and/or paddle pin (890) when the displacement pin (747) isdisplaced by the button mechanism (741).

[0095] At the base of the pivot shaft (742), there is included a collar(873) and slotted ring (773) similar in design to slotted ring (751).Slotted ring (773) generally includes at least two coplanar and parallelslots (874) therethrough. The slots (874) each have a width similar tothe thickness of the paddle (771) and are generally similar to the slots(753) in slotted ring (751). Through-hole (842) extends through thecollar (873) and the slotted ring (773) in much the same manner that thesecond through-holes (728) can extend through the bearing surfaces ofend caps (716) and associated collar (846) or (848) and slotted rings(751)

[0096] The locking and unlocking of the handle's 2-axial motion isobtained by moving paddle (771) between two positions based on thedepression or lack thereof of the button mechanism (741). In the firstposition (shown in FIG. 21A), the paddle (771) is positioned in at leastone slot (753) in each of said slotted rings (751) and in at least oneslot (874) (but generally two parallel slots) in slotted ring (773). Inthe second position (shown in FIG. 21B), the paddle has been linearlydisplaced from the slots and into the space within the openings to whichslotted rings (751) are circumjacent and above the slotted ring (773).The paddle (771) has been displaced into the hollow interior ofintermediate member (706) and is clear of the slots (874) and (753).These positions correspond to a “Locked” and “unlocked” positionrespectively.

[0097] In order to better understand the locking and unlockingoperations, it is easiest to explain the interrelationship ofintermediate member (706), pivot shaft (742) and end caps (716) duringoperation. It is preferred that the intermediate member allow bearingsurface (973) of pivot shaft (742) and bearing surface (740) on stemportion (738) to be freely rotatable on bearing surface (750) of theintermediate member (706) by having the ridge (850) of the intermediatemember rotate about the collar (873) of the pivot shaft. In the sameway, bearing surface (726) of end caps (716) can also freely rotate onbearing surface (746) or (748) by having the appropriate ridge (846) or(848) rotate above the appropriate collar (791).

[0098] Presuming that there is no paddle (771) present, the handle (704)can traverse two interrelated degrees of motion similar to that allowedby the second embodiment. In this case, however, the use of the two pinsin the second embodiment about which the interlocking member (706) andstem portion (738) rotate is replaced by the rotation of the ridge (846)and/or (848) about the collars (791) of the end caps (716), and therotation of the pivot shaft collar (873) on the ridge (850) of theintermediate member (706). In particular, the handle (704) can rotateabout the axis of the pivot shaft (742) by rotating with the pivot shaft(742) relative to the intermediate member (706). Further, theintermediate member (706) and the handle (704) can rotate about an axisperpendicular to the bearing surfaces (726) of the end caps (716). Thismotion is similar to the motion described with regards to the secondembodiment above allowing the handle to rotate about two different (andgenerally perpendicular) axes. It is preferred that these axes begenerally of similar alignment to the axes of the second embodimentrelative to the piece of baggage, but such arrangement is by no meansnecessary. It should also be apparent that only rotational motion aboutthose two axes is allowed by the structure as all other motion isprevented due to structure in the intermediate member (706), handle(704), or end caps (716).

[0099] The available motion when there is no paddle (771) present, isthe same as the motion available when the paddle (771) is within thehollow of the intermediate member (706) and therefore corresponds to themotion when the paddle (771) is in the unlocked position. In thedepicted embodiment, the user could depresses the button mechanism (741)which would overcome any biasing present and in turn result in movementof the depression pin (747) linearly away from the handle grip (734),the movement of the depression pin (747) would in turn push the paddle(771) away from the grip (734) and would move the paddle from within theslots. Once free of the slots, the depression pin (747) can freelyrotate around the paddle (771). The paddle (771) is preferably preventedfrom movement about that same axis by any method known to one ofordinary skill in the art, for instance another pin may be attachedinternal to the intermediate member (706) to pass through hole (891) inthe paddle (771) to prevent its rotation (this would be perpendicular tothe page of FIG. 20). The paddle (771) and intermediate member (706)combination can also freely rotate relative to the end caps (716).

[0100] Once the paddle (771) has been moved from the obstructingposition, the handle (704) can be pivoted about two axes relative to thearm portion (702) of the towing member. The multi-axis pivoting of thetowing member (700) of the fourth embodiment allows the handle (704) tobe oriented as shown in FIGS. 17A, 17B, and 17C.

[0101] The slotted rings (773) and (751), provide for a locking positionof the paddle for locking the handle grip (734) into a predeterminedposition. If the paddle (771) is retracted toward the handle grip (734)so that it enters one slot on each of the adjoining slotted rings (751).The entry of this slot (since the slots are only about as wide as thepaddle is thick) essentially prevent the paddle from rotating about theaxis between the end caps, as the solid portion of slotted rings (751)obstructs the motion. Further, since the depression pin can only movelinearly with regards to the handle grip (734), the handle grip is nowlocked in position relative to the axis perpendicular to the end caps(716) bearing surfaces.

[0102] A similar result about the pivot shaft (742) axis can be obtainedby retracting the paddle (771) into two parallel slots in the slottedring (773). The rigid design of the paddle (771) when placed through theslots (973), will prevent the pivot shaft (742) from rotating relativeto the paddle (771). Now, if the paddle (771) was allowed to freelyrotate about the pivot shaft (742) axis at this point, the handle (704)would not be locked as the paddle (771) could rotate with the pivotshaft (the paddle (771) could not rotate with the intermediate member(706) because there is no attachment between them), but, in thepreferred embodiment, when the paddle is in the slots (973) of slottedring (773) on the pivot shaft (742), the paddle (771) is also within theslots (753) of slotted rings (751) on the end caps (716). Therefore, theslotted rings (751) prevent the paddle (771) from rotating about thepivot shaft (742) axis as the paddle (771) is obstructed by the slottedrings (751) (further, the design for keeping the paddle from rotating inthis axis when in the unlocked position, preferably also prevents motionby the paddle in this axis when in the locked position). Thisobstruction prevents the depression pin (747) and pivot shaft (742) fromrotating about the pivot shaft (742) axis.

[0103] As discussed above, it is preferable that the pivot shaft (742)be designed so that it is unable to rotate about the depression pin(747) on the pivot shaft (742) axis, and therefore motion by the handle(704) in either axis is prevented as the depression pin (747) and pivotshaft (742) are held together and neither can rotate freely. Thiscorresponds to the locked position, and the handle (704) cannot be movedin either axis when in this position.

[0104] It is preferable, that the paddle (771) be biased to its positionwithin the slots (973) and (753), if any slots are aligned with thepaddle (771). The paddle (771) attempts to return to a position where itis in a slot if one is available for it to enter. It should be apparentthat the slotted rings (773) and (751) allow for the user to depress thebutton mechanism (741), to move the grip (734) slightly, and then torelease the button mechanism (741) and then move the handle (704) to aposition desired where there is a slot in the ring, presuming there areno slots between the original position, and the slot for the desiredposition. If the button mechanism (741) is released when the paddle(771) is not lined up with a set of slots, the paddle (771) will not beable to retract into a slot and will only retract to the surface of theslotted ring (773) and/or (751). In this position, the paddle (771) canmove smoothly over the surface of the ring, and will not prevent motionof the grip (734), until the paddle (771) becomes aligned with a seriesof slots and is biased into the slots, preventing movement.

[0105] In the embodiment pictured in FIGS. 20 and 21, it should also beapparent that because of the size of the slotted rings (773) and (751),in order to retract the paddle (771) into one set of slots (973) or(753), the paddle (771) must also be able to be retracted into a secondset of slots (973) or (753), as one slotted ring will obstruct thepaddle (771) from retracting into the other slotted ring. This meansthat the user either has both axes of motion freed or locked. While thisdoes provide for some benefits, one of skill in the art would recognizethat in alternative embodiments, the paddle (771) could be allowed toenter one series of slots, even if entering the other series is stillobstructed.

[0106] The slots (973) and (753) can be chosen to correspond topreselected positions where the user might like to have the handle (704)lock into position. In this way, the handle (704) can be moved to aposition predetermined to be desirable where it locks into place. Thislocking provides that the user has the freedom to alter the position ofthe handle as shown in FIGS. 17A and 17B, which show how two differentpositions which share an axis could be accomplished, and 17C, whichprovides for a locked position with both axes adjusted. The user neednot use the musculature in their wrist to maintain the handle (704) inthe preselected position, as the handle (704) is held there by thelocking mechanism in the positions of 17A, 17B, and 17C.

[0107] In some embodiments of the fourth embodiment, it may be desirableto also have the depression of the button mechanism (741) release thelocking mechanism for keeping the arm portion (702) extended. This maybe accomplished through the inclusion of additional structure in atleast one of the end caps (716). As shown in FIG. 23, there can beincluded within an end cap a bullet shaft (691), which is designed toslide linearly within the second through-hole (728) and into the end cap(716). The bullet shaft (691) may be pressed into the end cap (716) asthe paddle (771) is pressed into the intermediate section (716) by theuser depressing the button mechanism (741). The arrowhead shape of thepaddle (771) may act on an opposing angle of the bullet shaft (601) inmuch the same way that the button mechanism (741) acts on the depressionpin (747). The bullet shaft (691), may then in turn depress a handleshaft (811) which extends through the first tubular section (802).Turning attention to FIGS. 24 and 25, which show the proximal end (808)of the first tubular section (802), the handle shaft (811) may extendand in turn depress a interaction cap (605) which operates on a keypaddle (603) which in turn retracts an extension pin (607) into a hole(609) in the end cap (811). The extension pin (607) is preferably biasedso as to extend from hole (609) and through aperture (809) in the secondtubular section (902) when the handle shaft (811) has not been displacedby displacement of the button mechanism (741). When through thisaperture (809), the tubular sections (802) and (902) are held in anextended state relative to each other and may not be retracted as theextension pin (607) obstructs movement of them relative to each other.

[0108] When the button mechanism (741) is depressed by the user, it istherefore possible to release the motion of the handle grip (734) inboth pivotal axes, as well as simultaneously releasing the lock in thearm portion (702) so that it can collapse in a reverse telescopingmanner. One of ordinary skill in the art would also understand that themotion of the components could be further translated to releaseadditional locking mechanisms such as to release a lock to allow the armportion (702) to extend. In logical continuation, the single buttondepression could be used to unlock motion of any portion of the towingmember (700) relative to any other portion. Therefore a single buttonrelease of the towing member (700) can be accomplished.

[0109] One of skill in the art would understand that the fourthembodiment depicted in FIGS. 17-25 is merely one embodiment of a lockingmechanism which would allow for release of the handle for motion in twoaxes, and the optional release of additional locking mechanisms. Otherstructures could be used without undue experimentation. For instance,the paddle (771) could be of a shape other than an “arrowhead”particularly if the button depression was only to release the two axialmotions and not to translate into other motion. Further, a paddle andslotted ring locking mechanism need not be used but other structurescould be used as a locking mechanism which allow for the depression ofthe button mechanism to release the two axes of motion. Still further,as briefly discussed, the two axes of motion need not be releasedsimultaneously and in an alternative embodiment, either motion could bereleased before the other, the user could select a motion to releasefirst or release both axes simultaneously, or another interrelationshipof the release of motions could be used.

[0110] While the invention has been disclosed in connection with certainpreferred embodiments, this should not be taken as a limitation to allof the provided details. Modifications and variations of the describedembodiments may be made without departing from the spirit and scope ofthe invention, and other embodiments should be understood to beencompassed in the present disclosure as would be understood by those ofordinary skill in the art.

1. A hand towed piece of baggage comprising: a piece of baggage; atleast one wheel connected to the piece of baggage, said wheel having awheel rotation axis; an arm portion having a length with oppositeproximal and distal ends, said proximal end of said arm portion beingoperatively secured to said piece of baggage; a towing handleoperatively connected to said distal end of said arm portion forpivoting movement of said towing handle about at least two pivot axesrelative to said arm portion; and a locking mechanism for unlocking andlocking said towing handle relative to said arm portion.
 2. The handtowed piece of baggage of claim 1, further comprising: one of said atleast two pivot axes being oriented substantially parallel to said wheelrotation axis.
 3. The hand towed piece of baggage of claim 1, furthercomprising: said at least two pivot axes comprising a first axis andsecond axis that intersect each other in generally perpendicularrelation.
 4. The hand towed piece of baggage of claim 1, furthercomprising: said arm portion being movable between extended andretracted positions relative to the piece of baggage such that thetowing handle is closer to the piece of baggage when the arm is in saidretracted position than when the arm is in said extended position. 5.The hand towed piece of baggage of claim 4, further comprising: said armportion being comprised of at least two telescoping sections that areslidably attached to each other for relative telescoping movement, therelative telescoping movement allowing said arm portion to be movablebetween said extended and said retracted positions.
 6. The hand towedpiece of baggage of claim 4, wherein said locking mechanism is furtheroperatively connected so said arm portion can be locked in said extendedposition.
 7. The hand towed piece of baggage of claim 6, furthercomprising: an intermediary member operatively connecting said handle tosaid arm portion, the intermediary member being pivotally connected tosaid arm portion for pivotal movement of the intermediary member andsaid handle about a first one of said at least two pivot axes relativeto said arm portion, said intermediary member also being pivotallyconnected to said stem of said handle for pivotal movement of saidhandle about a second one of said at least two pivot axes relative tosaid intermediary member and said arm portion.
 8. The hand towed pieceof baggage of claim 7, further comprising: said first one of said atleast two pivot axes being oriented substantially parallel to said wheelrotation axis and the second one of said at least two pivot axes beingoriented in a plane substantially perpendicular to said first one ofsaid at least two pivot axes.
 9. The hand towed piece of baggage ofclaim 4, wherein said locking mechanism is further operatively connectedso said arm portion can be locked in said retracted position.
 10. Thehand towed piece of baggage of claim 4 wherein said arm portion iscurved away from said piece of baggage.
 11. The hand towed piece ofbaggage of claim 1, further comprising: an intermediary memberoperatively connecting said handle to said arm portion, saidintermediary member being pivotally connected to said arm portion forpivotal movement of said intermediary member and said handle about afirst one of the at least two pivot axes relative to said arm portion,said intermediary member also being pivotally connected to the handlefor pivotal movement of said handle about a second one of said at leasttwo pivot axes relative to the intermediary member and said arm portion.12. The hand towed piece of baggage of claim 11, further comprising:said first one of said at least two pivot axes being orientedsubstantially parallel to said wheel rotation axis and said second oneof said at least two pivot axes being oriented in a plane substantiallyperpendicular to the first one of said at least two pivot axes.
 13. Thehand towed piece of baggage of claim 12, further comprising: said firstone of said at least two pivot axes intersecting said second one of saidat least two pivot axes.
 14. The hand towed piece of baggage of claim13, further comprising: said arm portion being movable between extendedand retracted positions relative to said piece of baggage such that saidtowing handle is closer to said piece of baggage when said arm portionis in said retracted position than when said arm portion is in theextended position.
 15. The hand towed piece of baggage of claim 14,further comprising: said opposite free ends of said hand grip defining ahand grip axis that extends from one of said opposite free ends to theother of said opposite free ends, the pivotal movement between thetowing handle and the arm portion about the at least two pivot axesallowing said hand grip axis to be oriented horizontally in a planeperpendicular to said wheel rotation axis when said arm portion is inthe extended position and said piece of baggage is being hand towed,said pivotal movement between said towing handle and said arm portionabout said at least two pivot axes also allowing said hand grip axis tobe oriented parallel to said wheel rotation axis when said arm portionis in said retracted position.
 16. The hand towed piece of baggage ofclaim 1, further comprising: A button mechanism within said towinghandle wherein a portion of said button mechanism extends through atleast a portion of said towing handle.
 17. The hand towed piece ofbaggage of claim 16 wherein when said button mechanism is depressed saidlocking mechanism is unlocked, and when said button mechanism isreleased said locking mechanism is biased to being locked.
 18. The handtowed piece of baggage of claim 16 further comprising A pivot shaft witha depression pin extending therethrough, wherein depression of saidbutton mechanism results in linear displacement of said depression pin.19. The hand towed piece of baggage of claim 18 further comprising Apaddle rotatably attached to said depression pin, the lineardisplacement of said paddle resulting in the locking or unlocking ofsaid locking mechanism.
 20. The hand towed piece of baggage of claim 16wherein said towing handle being T-shaped and comprising an elongatedhand grip with opposite free ends and a stem that intersects andprojects from said hand grip between the opposite free ends, said stemoperatively connecting said towing handle to the arm portion.
 21. Thehand towed piece of baggage of claim 20 wherein said button mechanismextends through one of said opposite free ends.
 22. The hand towed pieceof baggage of claim 1, further comprising: said towing handle beingT-shaped and comprising an elongated hand grip with opposite free endsand a stem that intersects and projects from said hand grip between theopposite free ends, said stem operatively connecting said towing handleto the arm portion.
 23. The hand towed piece of baggage of claim 1wherein: said locking mechanism either locks or unlocks said at leasttwo pivot axes simultaneously.
 24. The hand towed piece of baggage ofclaim 1 wherein: said locking mechanism unlocks said first of said atleast two pivot axes separately from said second of said at least twopivot axes.
 25. A hand towed piece of baggage comprising: a piece ofbaggage; at least one wheel connected to the piece of baggage, the wheelhaving a wheel rotation axis; an arm portion having a length withopposite proximal and distal ends, the proximal end of the arm portionbeing operatively secured to the piece of baggage; a towing handleoperatively connected to said distal end of said arm portion in a mannerthat allows said towing handle to pivot about at least two pivot axesrelative to the arm portion; and means for locking said towing handle toprevent movement about said at least two pivot axes.
 26. A method ofoperating a hand towed piece of baggage, the method comprising:providing a piece of baggage having: at least one wheel, an arm portion,and a towing handle, wherein, the at least one wheel is connected to thepiece of baggage for rotation about a wheel rotation axis, the armportion having a length with opposite proximal and distal ends, theproximal end of the arm portion being operatively secured to the pieceof baggage, the towing handle being operatively connected to the distalend of the arm portion in a manner that allows the towing handle topivot about at least two pivot axes relative to the arm portion, the armportion being movable between extended and retracted positions relativeto the piece of baggage such that the towing handle is closer to thepiece of baggage when the arm portion is in the retracted position thanwhen the arm portion is in the extended position, the towing handlecomprising an elongated hand grip that defines a hand grip axis;pivotally moving the towing handle relative to the arm portion about theat least two pivot axes into a first position such that the hand grip ofthe towing handle is oriented with the hand grip axis extending parallelto the wheel rotation axis when the arm portion is in the retractedposition; locking said towing handle in said first position; unlockingsaid towing handle; pivotally moving the towing handle relative to thearm portion about the at least two pivot axes into a second positionsuch that the hand grip of the towing handle is oriented with the handgrip axis extending horizontally in a plane perpendicular to the wheelrotation axis when the arm portion is in the extended position and thepiece of baggage is being hand towed; and locking said towing handle insaid second position.